Can traveling increase my risk of developing a blood clot?
Answer:
Yes, but the overall risk remains low for most healthy travelers. Sitting for more than four hours—whether on an airplane, in a car, on a train, or aboard a bus—can slow blood flow in the legs. For people with additional risk factors, prolonged immobility may increase the risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Regular movement and following your physician's recommendations can significantly reduce that risk.